49ers players eager for return of refs

Boardman, Ohio – Further review was not required: The 49ers were thrilled Wednesday morning when a report surfaced that the NFL was close to reaching a deal with their locked-out referees.

Center Jonathan Goodwin immediately took to Twitter: “Referee’s back referee’s back referee’s back,” he wrote. “Never thought I’d be happy to say that. (Until they call a penalty on me).”

Right guard Alex Boone, smiling, anticipated the return of one of the league’s most recognizable referees: “Ed Hochuli‘s coming back. That’s what I saw on Facebook. I was excited.”

Safety Donte Whitner, invoking the game-ending fiasco in Seattle’s win over Green Bay on Monday, responded more soberly. After wide receiver Golden Tate was incorrectly ruled to have caught a touchdown on the final play of Seattle’s 14-12 victory, the Seahawks (2-1) moved into a tie with the 49ers for second place in the NFC West.

Whitner said the game represented a “tipping point.” With replacement referees affecting the outcome of games and, perhaps, the trajectory of teams’ seasons, it was time to bring back the regulars.

“We all just want to go out there and have a fair game,” he said. “Each and every team works so hard throughout the week … One game is a lot in the National Football League, you only play 16. So hopefully they will come back as soon as possible.”

The league and the referees announced at midnight (EDT) Wednesday that an agreement had been reached. The referees plan to vote Friday and Saturday to ratify the deal.

Jacobs back at practice: It appears Brandon Jacobs could make his regular-season debut with his new team at his old home.

The 49ers’ running back took part in practice for the first time since suffering a left-knee injury in the second preseason game at Houston on Aug. 18. Jacobs was listed as “limited” during the session at Youngstown State, but he appeared to be moving well during the portion of practice open to the media.

If Jacobs returns to action Sunday against the Jets, he will do so at MetLife Stadium, which is also the Giants‘ home stadium. Jacobs spent the first seven seasons of his career with the Giants before signing with the 49ers in March.

Meanwhile, nose guard Isaac Sopoaga (ankle, knee) did not practice, wide receiver Ted Ginn Jr. (ankle) was limited and linebacker Patrick Willis (ankle) was a full participant. If Sopoaga is unable to play Sunday, Ricky Jean Francois would make his third career start in his place.